Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers

What do Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers Do?

Concrete finishers must possess an in-depth understanding of required methods, tools, and materials. For independently employed masons, knowledge of general business practices and laws can greatly contribute to success. Cement masons and concrete finishers must also know how to read and interpret blueprints drawings and models. Since masonry is a physical job, a high degree of manual dexterity and strength is needed.

Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers Skills and Abilities

Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers set the forms that hold the concrete in place while it is being poured. The forms must then be checked to ensure proper alignment and levelness. An understanding of mixing techniques and processes is needed to create high-quality concrete that will stand up to traffic and time. After the concrete is poured, concrete finishers should know how to effectively smooth the surface and repair any cracks or holes. Experienced finishers should be able to understand how weather, climate, and environment will affect the poured concrete. Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers may also:

Apply hardening and sealing compounds to the surface of the concrete

Waterproof or restore concrete to its previous condition

Direct other workers during the pouring of concrete

Mix the cement with various materials to ensure the creation of an industrial-grade material

Apply masonry finishes for decoration and aesthetic appeal

Inspect completed work for errors or oversights

Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers Tools and Technology

Concrete finishers employ a wide variety of tools and equipment during working hours. Batching feeders or plants are employed along with concrete buckets that can withstand heavy mixing. Concrete spreaders are also used to create an even and professional-looking spread. Heavier equipment such as power saws are employed to correct and perfect concrete quickly. Cement masons who work from in office may employ various types of project management and accounting software. This field requires an immense amount of manual labor, so workers should be in fairly good shape.

Education and Training for Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers

Entering into this particular line of work does not require a college education or advanced degree. Approximately 47% of cement masons and concrete finishers held a high-diploma. 38% of cement masons had no diploma at all, meaning that this is an entry-level career. Workers tend to receive a moderate amount of on-the-job training and prior work experience is sometimes considered. Although no formal education is needed, workers must possess a comprehensive understanding of pouring practices and equipment operation.

Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers Salary

The average median salary for cement masons and concrete finishers is $36,800. The highest paid finishers grossed around $64,000 a year. The lowest paid 10% grossed approximately $25,000 a year. As with any industry, salary is influenced by experience, credentials, and job ability. The industry experienced a wage increase of 0.6% over the last year, meaning wages remained relatively unchanged over a brief period of time. Cement masons employed in the coal mining industry earned the most money.

Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers Jobs by Geography

The states with the highest concentration of cement mason jobs are South Dakota, North Dakota, and Wyoming. The top-paying states for this job are Hawaii, New York, and Alaska. Although it only employs approximately 630 cement masons and concrete finishers, Hawaii pays its cement workers over $66,000 annually. The Houston, TX metro area has the highest level of employment for this type of work. Nationwide, there is projected to be a 29% increase in the demand for concrete finishers over the next 7 years, making this a very in-demand position.